Kotekan
for 8 flutists
by Wil Offermans

published by Musikverlag Zimmermann (ZM 32590)
- instrumentation: 5 flutes; 1 alto and 2 bass flutes (or 8 C-flutes)
- duration: 13 minutes
- score: 44 pages, plus 8 part-scores and an optional 'Flute 6' (as an alternative for the alto flute).
- text in: English, German and French
- year of publication: 1997
- dedicated to the Flute Ensemble The Magic Flute

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Kotekan

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In the wonderful world of non-western ensemble music, we can hear some most fascinating samples of collectivism. Here, usually each player performs a relatively simple pattern, rhythm or motive, which - on itself - seems without much musical value. However, once performed in the ensemble it becomes part of some sensational and enigmatic music. With the idea to integrate non-western ensemble techniques into the contemporary flute ensemble and with a focus towards Bali, Indonesia, I first composed three short studies for flute ensemble. These were based on techniques like canon, interlocking (a pattern or melody is divided amongst various parts) and kecak (the Balinese Hindu-legend monkey dance, with dazzling vocal interlocking).

Kotekan (= a Balinese interlocking technique) has been created as a sequel to these three short studies. Kotekan involves some contemporary flute techniques like wind tones, harmonics, and bamboo tones as well as a non-western approach concerning ensemble playing. Here, beauty can merely arise from the enjoyment of the elusive nature of the collectivism.

The piece has been recorded by Wil Offermans on the CD The Magic Flute (CD E-971, E-records).